Hundreds Benefit as UK-Based SmileStar and Cimas Bring Free Dental Care to Matabeleland North

VICTORIA FALLS – A transformative two-week dental health campaign has brought much-needed relief to underserved communities in Matabeleland North, with approximately 600 patients receiving free specialized care in Victoria Falls alone during the program’s opening days.

​The initiative, running from March 8 to 20, 2026, is a collaborative effort between the UK-based charity SmileStar Foundation, Cimas Health Group, and local partners including Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. The outreach aims to bridge the gap in oral healthcare access for rural and remote populations in Victoria Falls, Hwange, and Matopo.

The mission is led by Dr. Mitesh Badiani, a renowned UK dentist and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Warwick. With over 20 years of experience and more than 2,000 successful implant procedures to his name, Dr. Badiani brings a wealth of expertise to the region.

​As the founder of the SmileStar Foundation, Dr. Badiani has dedicated his career to humanitarian work, having treated over 50,000 patients globally.

​”Our goal is not only to provide immediate dental treatment but also to empower these communities with sustainable oral health knowledge,” said Dr. Badiani during the Victoria Falls leg of the tour.

To ensure high-quality care, Cimas Health Group has deployed its fully equipped mobile dental clinic, allowing the team to perform a wide range of procedures on-site, including:

​Restorative dental work

​Periodontal (gum) treatments

​Simple endodontic (root canal) cases

​Tooth extractions and cleanings

​In a statement Cimas said that this second edition of the outreach is a core pillar of the group’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy.

“This initiative is about more than just clinical work; it’s about smooth, efficient communication and collaboration to serve our people in Matabeleland North”.

​The medical team is moving across the province to ensure maximum reach. Residents in the following areas can access services on these dates:

Dates Location Facility

March 9–11 Victoria Falls Mkhosana Council Clinic

March 13–14 Hwange Miombo Safari Camp (Dete)

March 17–18 Matopo Ethandweni Children’s Home

March 19–20 Matopo Mission Clinic.

​A significant portion of the campaign is dedicated to preventative education. The team is conducting oral hygiene workshops to combat preventable dental issues, which remain prevalent in areas with limited access to fluoridated water and regular dental check-ups.

​This partnership sets a benchmark for healthcare collaboration in Zimbabwe, combining international volunteerism with local corporate support to restore smiles and improve the long-term well-being of the community.